Primitive Hunting Seasons: Centerfire Rifles May Be Allowed in Mississippi

Some hunters in Mississippi may soon be able to use centerfire rifles during the state’s “primitive weapons” deer season under a bill that’s headed for the governor’s desk.

From this story in the Mississippi Business Journal: Some hunters who use modern rifles may no longer have to sit out primitive weapon deer season in Mississippi. A bill that would allow hunters to use weapons of choice on private land during this brief part of deer season is headed to the desk of Gov. Phil Bryant. Bryant spokesman Mick Bullock said he expects the governor to sign the bill into law. House Bill 1139 would apply only if the hunter is the landowner or is leasing the land, a member of a hunting club, or a guest. The bill would not apply to public lands. If a license is required, the hunter would still be required to purchase that license. Deer season in Mississippi generally lasts from October to February, varying by region. The period for deer hunting with primitive weapons varies by region, ranging from about two weeks long to about six weeks long.

According to the story, the bill’s author claims many Mississippi hunters either don’t have the money to buy a muzzleloader, or don’t enjoy using them. Is there really any point of having a primitive weapons season if you’re not going to make everyone use primitive weapons? Yes, they’re less efficient, more inconvenient and generally harder to use, but that’s the appeal.